Travel changes as we get older — and that’s not a bad thing. I no longer enjoy roughing it in hostels or sleeping on night buses. I have less time and more money than I used to. This means I make different choices now than when I was a twenty-something backpacker.
This short quiz helps you understand what kind of traveller you are right now, so you can plan trips that feel enjoyable, comfortable, and realistic — not rushed or exhausting.
There are no right or wrong answers. Just choose what sounds most like you. You don’t need to sign up for anything to see your result.
Question 1: My ideal sightseeing day:
A. I like gentle mornings, one main activity, and time to relax
B. I enjoy a full day, as long as it’s not rushed
C. I’m happy to be out most of the day if I really want to see something
Question 2: Walking on uneven ground, longer hikes or lots of steps?
A. I prefer to limit it or take breaks
B. I’m fine with it for a while
C. It doesn’t bother me much
Question 3: When planning a trip, my biggest concern is…
A. Not being able to keep up physically
B. Feeling exhausted or sore
C. Not making the most of the destination
Question 4: How I feel about moving accommodation:
A. I like to stay put and unpack only once or twice
B. Every 3–4 nights works well
C. I don’t mind changing hotels frequently
Question 5: Weather affects my enjoyment when….
A. it’s too hot, too cold, or unpredictable
B. it’s noticeable, but manageable
C. It doesn’t. There’s no such thing as bad weather – just bad clothing
Question 6: Guided tours for the day sound…
A. Appealing — if they’re small and relaxed
B. Useful sometimes but I prefer independence
C. Like torture
Question 7: At the end of a trip, I want to feel…
A. Refreshed and content
B. Happy and satisfied
C. Like I’ve seen and done all I came to see and do
Question 8: When something goes slightly wrong while travelling…
A. It stresses me more than it used to
B. I deal with it, but prefer good planning
C. I’m fine. Travel mishaps make good stories and I’m adaptable
The results
Mostly A’s → The Slow & Comfort-First Traveller
You travel to enjoy the experience — not to prove anything.
You’re happiest when:
- Days are gently paced
- Comfort and rest are built in
- You have time to absorb a place rather than “cover” it
What works well for you:
- Fewer bases, longer stays
- Private drivers, small tours, or scenic self-drives
- Destinations like Morocco (with riads), safari lodges in South Africa, slower routes in Thailand, slow travel in cultures that aren’t too different from your own.
Mostly B’s → The Balanced Explorer
You enjoy seeing and doing — with limits.
You’re happiest when:
- There’s structure, but flexibility
- Busy days are followed by lighter ones
- Comfort matters, but so does curiosity
What works well for you:
- 2–3 nights per location
- Mixing guided experiences with free time
- Shoulder seasons and realistic itineraries
Mostly C’s → The Active & Curious Traveller
You still love full days and variety — just with a bit more thought than before.
You’re happiest when:
- You feel engaged and stimulated
- You can move around freely
- You’re not overly restricted by plans
What works well for you:
- Road trips, independent travel
- Shorter stays with clear priorities
- Planning rest after the trip rather than during
You don’t have to stick to one style — many of us move between them depending on the trip
Would you like to get ideas like this occasionally?
I share notes and tips on travel from experience. Things that I wish someone had told me before ending up halfway up a waterfall or completely overwhelmed in Bangkok.
If that sounds useful (or you just enjoy reading about someone else’s mishaps), you can sign up here. There’s no pressure, and you can unsubscribe at any time.